The 30th of November – 1st December is set to be a very busy weekend in Calderdale, wth the Starlight Parade in Halifax, Hebden Christmas Market, Hebden Bridge Open Studios and Brighouse Christmas Market!

To ensure you have a delightful and stress-free day, we’ve created this ‘Guide to the 30th,’ featuring travel tips and recommendations for places to grab a drink and a bite to eat, so you can recharge and enjoy every moment…

Brighouse Christmas Market

Brighouse Christmas Market is a festive event held on Saturday 30th November and Sunday 1st December in the heart of Brighouse town centre. The market features over 80 stalls offering festive food, crafts, and gifts, along with special offers from local shops, cafes, and restaurants. The Christmas Tree Switch-On in Thornton Square is a highlight, taking place on Saturday from 4pm.

Taking the bus or train can help you avoid the stress of finding parking, especially when spaces are limited, making your journey much more relaxing and hassle-free by using public transport.

By Bus: The bus station has connections locally, across Calderdale and around West Yorkshire and is located in the heart of the town centre, plan your journey by bus here.

By Train: Brighouse is connected directly to London, Leeds, Huddersfield, Bradford and Manchester by train and the railway station is within 10 minutes walk of the town centre, find out more details about Brighouse station and timetables here.

Hebden Bridge Christmas Market

If you are planning on visiting Hebden Bridge Christmas Market don’t forget to visit Hebden Bridge’s high street, with dozens of independent shops. Offering homewares, vintage clothing, incredible cheeses, local artists’ produce, and antique shops – there’s a unique gift waiting behind every door!

Make a pit stop at one of the fabulous cafes and restaurants that can be found in and around Hebden.

Come along to a free winter ‘Wait and Create’ activity for all the family on Saturday 30th November, 12-4pm in the Waiting Room at Hebden Bridge Railway Station with the artist Jeffrey Andrews. Get crafty by creating, colouring and collaging your very own handmade book. Don’t forget to show your public transport ticket (bus or train) at the Hebden Bridge waiting room to be entered into a competition to win a free Family Day Pass on the Northern Railway line.

Hebden Open Studios

The Hebden Bridge Open Studios Weekend is a vibrant event where local artists and makers open their studios to the public, offering a unique glimpse into their creative processes. Held annually, this event showcases a wide range of art and craft, providing an excellent opportunity to discover and purchase unique pieces directly from the artists

Parking is very limited in Hebden Bridge, so we encourage visitors to use public transport, please assume there will not be any available spaces (apart from Blue Badge parking). To make your visit easier, a park-and-ride bus service will be available from Mytholmroyd Station, where there are over 150 car parking spaces. 

While in Mytholmroyd drop into to the award winning Blue Teapot and try something tasty from their extensive vegetarian menu, or call into the Pink Pepper and enjoy a delicious meal after a busy day shopping!

By Train: Trains stop at Hebden Bridge Station, just a five-minute walk from the heart of town, making it an easy and scenic arrival point, Plan your journey here.

By Bus: Buses run frequently throughout the Calder Valley, connecting Hebden Bridge to nearby towns and making travel convenient and eco-friendly, plan your bus journey here.

By Bike: Hebden Bridge is well-connected by cycling routes, including the Pennine Cycleway. Secure cycle racks are available in the town centre, so you can explore on foot once you arrive.

On Foot: Walking from Mytholmroyd train station to Hebden Bridge is a pleasant journey along the canal towpath, taking about 30 minutes and offering scenic views of the Calder Valley.

Visit Hebden Makes Christmas for full details.

 

 

Starlight Parade – Halifax

The Starlight Parade will start at 4:00 pm. This spectacular procession will wind its way through the heart of Halifax, featuring illuminated floats, marching bands, and vibrant performers. The parade route has been expanded this year to include new areas of the town centre, ensuring that even more visitors can experience the magic.

Pre-Parade Entertainment

Before the parade kicks off, there will be plenty of entertainment throughout the town. From street performers to live music, the festive atmosphere will be in full swing. Local shops and cafes will also join in the celebrations, offering special deals and festive treats.

Family-Friendly Activities

The Starlight Festival is perfect for families, with a variety of activities to keep everyone entertained. Children can enjoy face painting, craft workshops, and even a visit from Santa Claus. There will also be food and drink stalls offering seasonal delights to keep you warm. Also visit Broad Street Plaza or Dean Clough  for a variety of family-friendly dining options that are perfect for taking the kids out to eat

By Train: Getting to Halifax by train is convenient, with regular services from Northern Rail and Grand Central Trains connecting it to major cities in the region., plan your journey here

By Bus: Halifax Bus station is located close to the town centre, plan your journey here.

By Car: If you are considering driving, consider parking at Dean Clough and Broad Street, or find details of council car parks here.